The Obstacle is the Way

Quick, how many names can you list in 30 seconds? You might come up with a list of 10 before blanking — kicking yourself because you KNOW more than that but can’t think of any others.

Now try again, but this time list all the names from Shakespeare’s writings? I bet you’ll think of more, and you will likely feel better about the experience as well.

People often think that the more constraints you have, the less creative you’ll be. But research shows that constraints increase innovation and original thought.

Why is this relevant?

Well, we have a ton of new and shiny constraints that we should work to innovate our way out of. The last year has not just highlighted the issues in our healthcare system; but also Capitalism, uber-efficient/Just-in-time systems, policing and policy, education, and many many others.

But as each of these issues are brought to light, we are given the opportunity to disrupt the ‘status-quo’ and decide that ‘how it’s always been done’ isn’t going to cut it going forward.

The constraints we face are surmountable if we can open our minds to change. If we can start talking about the real issues and learn from one another, not to disagree but to find workable solutions. We need to stop pretending that the world is going back to normal, and instead work to build a better future.